- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the cubed chicken to the pot and cook until it’s no longer pink on the outside, about 5 minutes. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will continue cooking in the soup later.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown. The earthy, umami flavor of the mushrooms will add a wonderful depth to the soup.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Herbs
- Stir in the wild rice, making sure it’s well-coated with the aromatics and chicken. This will help the rice absorb all those delicious flavors as it cooks.
- Sprinkle in the thyme and rosemary, stirring to distribute the herbs evenly. These herbs will bring a fragrant, woodsy note to the soup that pairs perfectly with the garlic and mushrooms.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender.
- If you’ve added carrots and celery, they should become tender during this cooking time as well. The broth will thicken slightly as the rice cooks, creating a rich, hearty soup base.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Parmesan
- Once the wild rice is tender, stir in the heavy cream. This will add a luxurious creaminess to the soup that’s perfect for chilly days.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the soup. The Parmesan adds a rich, savory note that complements the garlic and mushrooms beautifully.
Step 6: Season and Serve
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—this is where you can bring out all the rich flavors you’ve built so far.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
- Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor: If you have the time, cooking with bone-in chicken breasts or thighs can enhance the richness of the soup even further. Simply shred the chicken after it has cooked and discard the bones.
- Add vegetables for extra nutrition: While carrots and celery are optional, they bring extra texture, flavor, and nutrition to the dish. You could also add spinach or kale for a boost of greens!
- Make it gluten-free: This soup is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check that your broth and Parmesan cheese don’t contain any hidden gluten if you’re serving someone with an allergy.
- Thicken with cornstarch or flour: If you prefer an even thicker soup, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch or flour with a little cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the soup before adding the cream.
Step 7: Enjoy the Comfort
Now it’s time to serve up this cozy bowl of deliciousness! Ladle the Garlic Parmesan Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup into bowls, and enjoy the tender chicken, nutty rice, and the rich creaminess that will have you savoring each spoonful.
Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread, perfect for dunking into the creamy broth, or a light salad for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors only deepen with time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
A Soul-Warming Dish for Every Occasion
Whether you’re cozying up by the fire on a cold evening or preparing a hearty meal for friends and family, this Garlic Parmesan Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the perfect choice. It’s a bowl full of warmth, comfort, and layers of flavor that everyone will love.
From the tender chicken and mushrooms to the creamy broth, this recipe captures the essence of comfort food while still feeling elegant and nourishing. Plus, the combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a depth of flavor that makes this soup truly special.
So next time you’re in need of a meal that will wrap you in warmth and make your taste buds dance, give this recipe a try. Enjoy every spoonful!